PONCHO IN '07?...

Few athletes in Los Angeles sports history have captivated fans like Nomar Garciaparra did this year. He was the most valuable player on the team, the guy everyone looked on to tell them everything would be ok, but most importantly he was the heart and soul of the Los Angeles Dodgers. In the stretch run, while he was battered and bruised Nomar willed the team into a playoff spot. In early May when the Dodgers where tormenting fans with their play, Nomar carried the team through it. Although my "BELIEVE IN THE PONCHO" rally cry did not hurt either. Nomar had a great comeback year. He hit .303, had 20 homeruns, and drove in 93 runs. He put up these numbers while being on the disabled list twice. Nomar also made his move to first base look effortless. He committed 1 error the entire season and has to be considered for a gold glove. Nomar had a terrific season overall. So the question is do the Dodgers bring him back. If you go strictly on numbers, Nomar is back next season. Nomar still has one of the best bats in the game. The problem with Nomar is his health. Nomar only played in 122 games. He missed almost 2 months due to numerous injuries. For the money Nomar is going to ask, I do not think he is worth it. Nomar will be one year older, and even more injury prone. Add the fact that James Loney finally looks ready to take over at first, should seal the fact that Nomar should not be brought back. It kills me to say that because of what Nomar brought to the team this year. But, the franchise cannot put themselves in a situation where they pay a guy a boat load of money, while the guy is injured most of the time, I.E. Kevin Brown, Darren Dreifort, Devon White. However, if Nomar where to take a discount contract, and the Dodgers where willing to have a platoon with Jeff Kent, James Loney, and Nomar, between first base, and second base, that situation might work. Whatever happens, Nomar was the most loved athlete in Los Angeles in '06. I wish Nomar the best of luck wherever he winds up. The struggles have continued in the Arizona Fall League for Chin Lung Hu, and Anthony Raglani. They are hitting .216, and .189 respectively. Although the Dodger pitchers seem to get better every outing. John Meloan lowered his era to 0.96 through 9 innings. He has just been unhittable, and is placing himself for consideration in the Dodgers bullpen next season. In the Hawaiian Winter League Blake DeWitt, and Xavier Paul are staggering. Although they have been showing signs of turning it around. Overall, I would say that our prospects have faired well enough. Lets look for a strong finish...


BELIEVE IN BLUE!